Preston hold canaries

Preston kicked off the new Championship against Norwich in front of a new-look Deepdale with only three stands after the old pavilion was knocked down over the summer. A new-look Preston also turned up without David Nugent and Mellor in place of him. Mellor signed last summer but has seen little action since his move from Liverpool. Mawene also made his competitive return after missing last season injured. In the centre of midfield, two new signings Kevin Nicholls and Darren carter lined up looking to impress the crowd.

PNE line up: Henderson, Alexander, Mawene, St.Ledger, Davidson, Whaley, Nicholls, Carter, Pugh, Ormerod, Mellor.

PNE bench: Lonergan, Jones, Sedgwick, Neal, Hawley

It was a surprise when defenders Hill and Chilvers didn`t make the starting line up, let alone the bench! However Simpson now has strength in depth with cover from St.Ledger and Davidson.

Straight away, Nicholls was getting stuck in and dominating proceedings. North End had already had a few chances but Nicholls sent a ball past a defender towards Mellor, but the big striker lost his footing and appealed for a penalty but to no avail.

In a half of limited chances, Dublin seemed the only outlet up front for Norwich, troubling Preston`s defence with his aerial presence. Pugh and Nicholls kept putting balls into the strikers but no-one could convert the chances.

The first card of Norwich`s season came at the end of a dull first half, when Dublin smashed Davidson in the face with his forearm. The referee had no other option but to book the striker. Carter then made a chance from the free kick before Mellor appealed for another penalty, this time for handball.

Half time: Preston 0-0 Norwich

Carter had two early opportunities in the second half but the luck seemed to be on Norwich`s side as the midfielder was unfortunate on both occasions. Mellor had another great chance before Nicholls struck the side netting with his effort, making plenty of Preston fans look optimistic.

The second half was as dull as the first but Preston deserved the points over Norwich, Nicholls did his best after striking the pot late on before Mellor had another chance. Pugh had the last chance, missing a header from six yards in stoppage time ensuring both teams left with a point.

Player Ratings

Wayne Henderson
7

Graham Alexander
7

Youl Mawene
7

Sean St.Ledger
7

Callum Davidson
7

Simon Whaley
5

Kevin Nicholls
9

Darren Carter
8

Danny Pugh
6

Neil Mellor
7

Brett Ormerod
6

Karl Hawley
N/A

Chris Sedgwick
N/A

Editor’s view
Preston dominated large spells of this encounter and the centre of midfield no longer is a problem with both Carter and Nicholls playing well. However Preston lack that edge in front of goal and Nugent’s ability to take on his man will clearly be missed this season. Hopefully Simpson can pull another transfer out the bag and we should be sorted. Defence and midfield look very strong and if the wingers find some form then a play-off push is attainable.